Richardson and Crouch set for debuts

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has awarded first caps to winger Kieran Richardson and striker Peter Crouch for today’s friendly with the US in Chicago.

Richardson’s inclusion is the major surprise for a player who only four months ago was playing for Manchester United’s reserve side.

But a successful loan spell with West Brom, helping them stave off relegation, has catapulted the player into the limelight.

Michael Carrick wins his first cap for three and a half years as a reward for an impressive season with Tottenham while Sol Campbell makes his first international appearance for seven months.

ENGLAND: James; G Johnson, Brown, Campbell, A Cole; J Cole, Jenas, Carrick, Richardson; Crouch, A Johnson.